A novel design to prevent electricity theft from pole mounted distribution boxes

In India, distribution losses are substantial from pilferage of distribution lines and connected equipment like energy meters, distribution boxes and various connectors. Few SEBs (State Electricity Boards) have started using Arial Bunched cables for prevention against theft by direct hooking on conductors but it has been observed that maximum power theft occurs through distribution box which makes distribution box most vulnerable component against power theft. Further, burning of distribution boxes happens due to overloading and improper connection system which results in high Ohmic loss. To prevent this, development of a theft proof distribution box with reduced Ohmic loss is needed which gives reliable operation throughout its life span with ease of installation and maintenance. In this paper focus is towards development of novel approach to avoid theft from pole mounted distribution box which is imperiled to major share for electricity theft among all equipment used in distribution system.